SUNDERLAND are locked in a head-to-head battle with Bolton Wanderers for Charlie Wyke, and remain committed to pursuing the Bradford City striker despite learning he is set to be sidelined for up to six weeks.

Wyke injured a knee in the early stages of Bradford’s friendly with Sheffield United last week, and while an initial examination suggested the problem was not too severe, subsequent scans have revealed damage that will keep him out of action for between four and six weeks.

Sunderland are aware of the situation, but remain keen to sign the striker, who has turned down the option of a new deal at Valley Parade.

The Black Cats tabled an offer that could be worth around £1m at the weekend, but Bolton Wanderers are also involved in detailed discussions with the Bradford board and are understood to be willing to match Sunderland’s up-front payment.

“The key area is the top of the pitch,” admitted Bolton boss Phil Parkinson. “At the start of the summer, we gave the chairman a list of strikers that we thought were realistic and he asked me which one was at the very top of that list. I don’t want to discuss the name – I’m sure it’s documented – but we’re going for that one.”

Bolton can offer the lure of Championship football as they look to prise Wyke from West Yorkshire, but Sunderland officials will hope the opportunity to return to the North-East will appeal to the Middlesbrough-born forward.

The Black Cats have tabled an offer for another attacking target, but have so far been unable to complete a deal.

They missed out on Mohamed Eisa when the Sudanese striker opted to join Championship side Bristol City, with his move from Cheltenham Town being formally confirmed yesterday.

Sunderland were willing to pay more than £1m for the 24-year-old, but having signed a three-year deal at Ashton Gate, Eisa claims it was impossible to turn down a move to the second tier.

“I am excited to be playing in the Championship,” he said. “I think it’s the next step. I believe I can handle it, there’s a lot of hard work ahead but I believe in myself and the gaffer obviously does because he’s brought me here.

“I am thrilled with the move. I’m very excited and can’t wait to get started. It’s a massive club with a large fan base, and I want to do as well as I can for the team.”

It has been a frustrating few days for Sunderland as George Evans has rejected the opportunity to join the Black Cats despite Reading accepting a £700,000 offer.

Evans is hoping to secure a move to the Championship, with Derby County having held discussions with Reading officials.

“We agree a fee for a player and personal terms,” tweeted Sunderland owner Stewart Donald. “We want him (on) Monday to come and sign but he now says he wants to see if he can get a move to the Championship! Fair enough, but we were committed to pay money to sign him. It will happen – I am frustrated too!”

Bryan Oviedo was back in training at the Academy of Light yesterday, having completed the extended break he was granted in the wake of his World Cup exertions with Costa Rica.

The full-back is expected to complete a permanent departure from Wearside this summer, but despite a number of clubs having expressed an interest, the Black Cats are yet to receive an acceptable offer.

He was therefore instructed to return to the North-East, although he is not expected to be involved in Sunderland’s final pre-season outing at Middlesbrough on Friday.

Meanwhile, Sunderland’s League One game at Coventry on Saturday, September 29 will kick-off at 12.30pm and be televised live on Sky.